The subject of operator algebras has experienced tremendous growth in recent years with significant applications to areas within algebraic mathematics as well as allied areas such as single operator theory, non-self-adjoint operator algegras, K-theory, knot theory, ergodic theory, and mathematical physics. This book makes recent developments in operator algebras accessible to the non-specialist.

This book offers a comprehensive introduction to the general theory of C*-algebras and von Neumann algebras. Beginning with the basics, the theory is developed through such topics as tensor products, nuclearity and exactness, crossed products, K-theory, and quasidiagonality. The presentation carefully and precisely explains the main features of each part of the theory of operator algebras; most important arguments are at least outlined and many are presented in full detail.

The study of operator algebras, which grew out of von Neumann's work in the 1920s and 30s on modelling quantum mechanics, has in recent years experienced tremendous growth and vitality, with significant applications in other areas both within mathematics and in other fields. For this reason, and because of the existence of a strong Canadian school in the subject, the topic was a natural candidate for an emphasis year at The Fields Institute. This volume is the second selection of papers that arose from the seminars and workshops of a year-long program, Operator Algebras and Applications, that took place at The Fields Institute. Topics covered include the classification of amenable C*-algebras, lifting theorems for completely positive maps, and automorphisms of von Neumann algebras of type III.

"The book is aimed at researchers and graduate students working in differential topology, differential geometry, and global analysis who are interested in learning about operator algebras."--BOOK JACKET.

This text on optics for graduate students explains how to determine material properties and parameters for inaccessible substrates and unknown films as well as how to measure extremely thin films. Its 14 case studies illustrate concepts and reinforce applications of ellipsometry — particularly in relation to the semiconductor industry and to studies involving corrosion and oxide growth. A User's Guide to Ellipsometry will enable readers to move beyond limited turn-key applications of ellipsometers. In addition to its comprehensive discussions of the measurement of film thickness and optical constants in film, it also considers the trajectories of the ellipsometric parameters Del and Psi and how changes in materials affect parameters. This volume also addresses the use of polysilicon, a material commonly employed in the microelectronics industry, and the effects of substrate roughness. Three appendices provide helpful references.

The study of operator algebras, which grew out of von Neumann's work in the 1920s and the 1930s on modelling quantum mechanics, has in recent years experienced tremendous growth and vitality. This growth has resulted in significant applications in other areas - both within and outside mathematics. The field was a natural candidate for a 1994-1995 program year in Operator Algebras and Applications held at The Fields Institute for Research in the Mathematical Sciences. This volume contains a selection of papers that arose from the seminars and workshops of the program. Topics covered include the classification of amenable C*-algebras, the Baum-Connes conjecture, E[subscript 0] semigroups, subfactors, E-theory, quasicrystals, and the solution to a long-standing problem in operator theory: Can almost commuting self-adjoint matrices be approximated by commuting self-adjoint matrices?

This book is the only comprehensive treatment of K-theory for operator algebras.